Oh Christmas Tree

Oh Christmas Tree

By Sherry Morris

Tinkerbell tops my tree and I'm determined to have a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year this season. Last year was lousy. I was working long E.R. shifts and volunteering on a rescue squad. We had lots of icy weather and snow and I was out driving in it in the wee hours while my family was home snug in their beds or enjoying it all. I closed out my father's estate and deposited it into my mother's account. Five days later, she passed.

Teary eyed, all I could think of was there I was, at work or on the squad and my family was at home without me. In all fairness, they were just fine. I was the one missing them more than they missed me.

Fast forward to this year. I am no longer working. I'm not volunteering. I am a full time homemaker, which I have been most of my kids' lives. However there is now a distinct difference. I'm living in the moment. Enjoying all the little things I do to make our house their home. Seriously. And it's as if I'm performing my routines for the first time. And really, really enjoying taking care of them and me. And our moments together. We are having a glorious holiday this year.

Mama and Daddy, wish you were here.

Are you caught up in the stress of the season? Is your tree up yet? Have you begun shopping? Are you cyber shopping? Will you travel for the holidays this year?